Evidence suggests that breastfeeding provides significant short- and long-term health benefits for both mother and baby.

Breastmilk provides all the necessary nutrients for optimum physical and mental development of your baby and has unique qualities to help build their immune system, that are not found in infant formula.

Research shows babies who are breastfed are protected against some infectious conditions such as gastroenteritis and respiratory infections and decreases their chance of a chronic illness later in life.

Mothers who breastfeed return to pre-pregnancy health sooner and have a reduced chance of breast and ovarian cancer, osteoporosis and type 2 diabetes.

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) recommends babies be exclusively breastfed to around 6 months of age. You should continue breastfeeding with solid food to at least 12 months of age.

Breastfeeding support is available from various services within ACT Health. Please see the links below for more information. You can also speak to your GP about any questions or concerns you may have about breastfeeding.

This video aims to increase awareness about breastfeeding and empower young parents to achieve a successful breastfeeding journey. It provides valuable information and tips on successful breastfeeding, including what to expect, how long to breastfeed for and breastfeeding in public.